harsh manner

[/hɑːrʃ ˈmænər/]
noun phrasepl: harsh manners
modo áspero / maneira áspera / tom áspero
1. A way of speaking, behaving, or treating others that is rough, severe, or unkind; lacking gentleness or compassion
He criticized her work in a harsh manner that left her feeling discouraged.
Ele criticou o trabalho dela de forma áspera, deixando-a desanimada.
2. An abrupt or stern approach to communication or interaction
Speaking in a harsh manner will not help you win friends.
Falar de maneira áspera não ajudará você a fazer amigos.
3. Severe or unpleasant in tone, appearance, or effect
The teacher's harsh manner intimidated the young students.
A maneira áspera da professora intimidava os alunos pequenos.
In Brazilian culture, communication tends to be warmer and more personal, so speaking in a 'harsh manner' is often perceived negatively and considered disrespectful. In American culture, particularly in NYC, a direct and seemingly harsh manner may be accepted as straightforward and efficient communication. The perception of what constitutes 'harsh' varies significantly between cultures.
NYC Slang
rough way / brutal tone
Synonyms / Sinônimos
rough mannerstern mannerabrupt mannersevere mannerunkind mannergruff mannercurt manner
Antonyms / Antônimos
gentle mannerkind mannersoft mannercourteous mannermild mannerpleasant mannerfriendly manner

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
modo áspero / maneira áspera
Most common and widely understood expression
Rio de Janeiro
jeito áspero / tom áspero
'Jeito' (way/manner) is commonly used in colloquial speech
São Paulo
forma áspera / maneira bruta
More formal register; 'bruta' emphasizes roughness
Portugal
modo áspero / forma áspera
Similar usage to Brazilian Portuguese; 'forma' slightly more formal

Related Words

harshnessabruptnessseverityrudenesscurtnessasperitygruffness

Related Idioms & Phrases

speak with a sharp tongue
cut someone down
speak out of turn
give someone the cold shoulder
not mince words
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →